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Sleeping Beauty

Presented by Vortex Repertory Company at The VORTEX

April 2-May 9, 2010

Avg. Event Rating (4.8 Stars):
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Due to the tremendous response and sold out houses, VORTEX will extend the run of Sleeping Beauty for one extra weekend, May 6-8 at 8pm and a Mothers’ Day Matinee on Sunday, May 9 at 3pm. This production is accessible for all ages.

 

“Brothers Grimm, move over. There’s a new interpretation of ‘Sleeping Beauty’ on the block — at The VORTEX . . . through May 2, that is. And this one — garnished with spectacular costumes, reinvented characters and engaging original songs — is more likely to appeal to the modern crowd”.
--Jeanne Claire van Ryzin, Austin American-Statesman

VORTEX Repertory Company proudly presents Sleeping Beauty, a magical musical faery tale by Bonnie Cullum and Content Love Knowles. This dynamic production provides a feminist, revisionist, re-telling of this well-beloved faery tale.

With its first-ever NEA-funded production, the artists of VORTEX Repertory Company have created larger-than-life costumes for the 13 Faeries and the Royal Court, a revolving spiral tower, and fantastical lighting. Join us as the magic of the mythic kingdom of Avalia comes to life in song and spectacle.

Conceived and directed by Bonnie Cullum. Musical Direction by Content Love Knowles. Scenic Design by Ann Marie Gordon. Lighting Design by Jason Amato. Costume Design by Pam Fletcher Friday and Griffon Ramsey. Sound Design by Roy Taylor. Additional music by Phil Gibbs.

 

• At-a-
  Glance

  • Venue Info

    The VORTEX

    2307 Manor Road
    Austin, TX 78722

    Full map and directions

  • Admission Info

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  • Dates & Times

    Dates:
    April 2-May 9, 2010

    Times:
    

    HELDOVER!! One final weekend --May 6-8 at 8pm and a Mothers’ Day Matinee on May 9 at 3pm. Must close on May 9.

  • Accessibility Info

    ASL-interpreted Performance: Saturday, April 10, 2010, 8:00 pm Audio Described Performance: Saturday, April 17, 2010, 8:00 pm

  • Video & Image Gallery

    Currently, additional images/videos have not been submitted for this event.

  • Member Reviews

    Add review/comment

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Captivating"
      Review posted by: BARB from Austin, May 08, 2010
      

      THIS PRODUCTION SHOULD GO TO NYC IT COULD BE AN OFF BROADWAY SHOW....REALLY WONDERFUL VOCALS AND COSTUMES...NEVER A DULL MOMENT. WORTH EVERY PENNY..BUT GET THE CHEAP SEATS...SMALL VENUE AND EVERY... Expand

      THIS PRODUCTION SHOULD GO TO NYC IT COULD BE AN OFF BROADWAY SHOW....REALLY WONDERFUL VOCALS AND COSTUMES...NEVER A DULL MOMENT. WORTH EVERY PENNY..BUT GET THE CHEAP SEATS...SMALL VENUE AND EVERY SEAT IS GOOD. Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Enchanted"
      Review posted by: Frances DeLaune from Austin, Texas, Apr 23, 2010
      

      My son (age 7) and I went a few weeks ago. I couldn't get the songs out of my head, nor could I ignore the incessant requests from my son to return for a second helping of Bonnie Cullum & Content... Expand

      My son (age 7) and I went a few weeks ago. I couldn't get the songs out of my head, nor could I ignore the incessant requests from my son to return for a second helping of Bonnie Cullum & Content Love Knowles's enchanting re-telling of this classic tale. Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Going to see it for the second time!"
      Review posted by: Capeilia M from Austin, TX, Apr 22, 2010
      

      Having just moved to Austin (from Seattle), I am always on the look out for new music shows, interesting art exhibits, unique plays, etc. Two weeks ago, I was recommended to see a show at the Vortex... Expand

      Having just moved to Austin (from Seattle), I am always on the look out for new music shows, interesting art exhibits, unique plays, etc. Two weeks ago, I was recommended to see a show at the Vortex in east Austin. I was promised an experience I would never forget. Currently, they are showing Sleeping Beauty--with a twist. It was one of the coolest musicals I've seen to date. The stellar cast was phenomenally talented. The costumes & lighting was a feast for the eyes. I cannot get the tunes out of my head! It was such a great show, I am bringing my niece this weekend! Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Sleeping Beauty"
      Review posted by: lillif from Austin, TX, Apr 21, 2010
      

      This was my first time seeing a production at the Vortex. This slightly sassy retelling of the classic fairy tale was fun and sweet, in the style of a contemporary Disney animated film, right down... Expand

      This was my first time seeing a production at the Vortex. This slightly sassy retelling of the classic fairy tale was fun and sweet, in the style of a contemporary Disney animated film, right down to the music and hammy comedic characters. Making use of every inch of the tiny theater space, the show sometimes felt overwhelming when more than a dozen actors were on stage at once, and some of the acting and singing were weak, but I certainly had a smile on my face throughout the show. Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Brilliant"
      Review posted by: Celia Hughes from Austin, TX USA, Apr 16, 2010
      

      Bonnie Cullum has pulled off a masterpiece in a very small space. I loved every minute of this well crafted and costumed retelling of the Sleeping Beauty tale. There were several younger children... Expand

      Bonnie Cullum has pulled off a masterpiece in a very small space. I loved every minute of this well crafted and costumed retelling of the Sleeping Beauty tale. There were several younger children in the audience, and they seemed engaged and entranced by it all. Really. Don't miss it! Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "One of the best shows I've seen in Austin."
      Review posted by: Scotty from Austin, TX, Apr 15, 2010
      

      THIS SHOW IS PHENOMENAL. Simply an amazing spectacle of gorgeous costumes, dazzling lighting, marvelous music, talented cast, and a great overall message of 'finding the truth within' yourself. I... Expand

      THIS SHOW IS PHENOMENAL. Simply an amazing spectacle of gorgeous costumes, dazzling lighting, marvelous music, talented cast, and a great overall message of 'finding the truth within' yourself. I found myself really involved in the story--So much that my hands were sweating during the more intense scenes! The play has a lighthearted humor that was unexpected, yet still has the necessary weight to pull you into the lives of the characters (many many characters, yet still well developed!) I am actually considering seeing it again--something I don't normally do! Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "absolutely magnificent"
      Review posted by: Jarred from Austin, TX, Apr 07, 2010
      

      this is the best musical/play i have seen in a long while and contrary to the posted review, my daughter (8) was not at all scared, on the contrary, she is still in awe about the castle and the... Expand

      this is the best musical/play i have seen in a long while and contrary to the posted review, my daughter (8) was not at all scared, on the contrary, she is still in awe about the castle and the fairies Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "'Tis a beauty!"
      Review posted by: D Kinne from Austin, TX USA, Apr 07, 2010
      

      It's gorgeous, through and through. Gorgeous music and book, gorgeous performances, gorgeous costumes and set. I've been an avid theater lover for more than 50 years, and this counts as one of... Expand

      It's gorgeous, through and through. Gorgeous music and book, gorgeous performances, gorgeous costumes and set. I've been an avid theater lover for more than 50 years, and this counts as one of the most memorable shows I've seen anywhere. During most of the show the small stage is filled with enchanting characters, all doing interesting things at the same time. A rich visual feast, with a darker story line than most adults remember, it's both scary and funny by measure. I can easily see Sleeping Beauty (or We Know What Briar Rose Did the Last 100 Summers) being successfully scaled up for a bigger venue, possibly even a major production in New York or London. I'm telling my friends, if you only get out for one live play this season (perish the thought!), make it this one. It's not to be missed. Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Enchanted by Sleeping Beauty: The Musical"
      Review posted by: Pammyla Brooks from Austin, Texas, Apr 05, 2010
      

      The ever-popular fairy tale is wakened back to life in Vortex's original new musical which is so aesthetically beautiful it is a delight to behold. From the minute you walk into the theater, you will... Expand

      The ever-popular fairy tale is wakened back to life in Vortex's original new musical which is so aesthetically beautiful it is a delight to behold. From the minute you walk into the theater, you will be enchanted by the fairies who interact with the audience in the front row, and the magical laser lights dancing around the darkened theater. The set is impressive is size and function, and I loved the "living" vines that trap all the princes that were unable to make it into the castle. The costumes, makeup, and hair arrangements are all exquisite and beautiful. The theater itself has been recently improved as all the seating is now on one side, making it easier for the cast to play to the entire audience, compared with its historical setup. Unlike other Vortex shows, this play has no nudity and so is appropriate for children. The best part is the non-traditional, yet strong and happy ending. Well done Bonnie Cullum and Content Love Knowles! I predict it will be a hit and will go far. Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "It's a Beauty!"
      Review posted by: Steven Fearing from Austin, TX, Apr 05, 2010
      

      Bonnie Cullum’s adaptation is clever and contemporary; it well-staged with over 30 characters fluidly moving in all directions. Many mytho-psychological layers and “gifts” are given for classic... Expand

      Bonnie Cullum’s adaptation is clever and contemporary; it well-staged with over 30 characters fluidly moving in all directions. Many mytho-psychological layers and “gifts” are given for classic sleeping beauty devotees. How to make the kingdom safe? Perseverance, courage, intuition, and empathy might help and a reclamation of spinning! Content Love Knowles' music is fittingly melodic and endearing. Costumes are visually intriguing. I loved Jennifer Coy’s comedic narration as the Fool. The Fae girls were sublime, especially Suzanne Balling as Ixlamere. Julia Lorenz as Princess Briar Rose claims her power and right to self-determine despite happy-ever-after chaos. Jonathan Itchon (Prince Dave) is vocally smooth. Andy Agne and Alejandro Rodriguez fantastically play multiple characters. Bottom line: a delightful fantasy at the Vortex; a party (and musical dance theatre) that is better because the faery’s are there! Join Vortex’s Faery Masque Ball on May 1. Collapse

• Media
  Gallery

  • All Media Gallery

    Currently, additional images/videos have not been submitted for this event.

• Member
  Reviews

  • Member Reviews

    Add review/comment

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Captivating"
      Review posted by: BARB from Austin, May 08, 2010
      

      THIS PRODUCTION SHOULD GO TO NYC IT COULD BE AN OFF BROADWAY SHOW....REALLY WONDERFUL VOCALS AND COSTUMES...NEVER A DULL MOMENT. WORTH EVERY PENNY..BUT GET THE CHEAP SEATS...SMALL VENUE AND EVERY... Expand

      THIS PRODUCTION SHOULD GO TO NYC IT COULD BE AN OFF BROADWAY SHOW....REALLY WONDERFUL VOCALS AND COSTUMES...NEVER A DULL MOMENT. WORTH EVERY PENNY..BUT GET THE CHEAP SEATS...SMALL VENUE AND EVERY SEAT IS GOOD. Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Enchanted"
      Review posted by: Frances DeLaune from Austin, Texas, Apr 23, 2010
      

      My son (age 7) and I went a few weeks ago. I couldn't get the songs out of my head, nor could I ignore the incessant requests from my son to return for a second helping of Bonnie Cullum & Content... Expand

      My son (age 7) and I went a few weeks ago. I couldn't get the songs out of my head, nor could I ignore the incessant requests from my son to return for a second helping of Bonnie Cullum & Content Love Knowles's enchanting re-telling of this classic tale. Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Going to see it for the second time!"
      Review posted by: Capeilia M from Austin, TX, Apr 22, 2010
      

      Having just moved to Austin (from Seattle), I am always on the look out for new music shows, interesting art exhibits, unique plays, etc. Two weeks ago, I was recommended to see a show at the Vortex... Expand

      Having just moved to Austin (from Seattle), I am always on the look out for new music shows, interesting art exhibits, unique plays, etc. Two weeks ago, I was recommended to see a show at the Vortex in east Austin. I was promised an experience I would never forget. Currently, they are showing Sleeping Beauty--with a twist. It was one of the coolest musicals I've seen to date. The stellar cast was phenomenally talented. The costumes & lighting was a feast for the eyes. I cannot get the tunes out of my head! It was such a great show, I am bringing my niece this weekend! Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Sleeping Beauty"
      Review posted by: lillif from Austin, TX, Apr 21, 2010
      

      This was my first time seeing a production at the Vortex. This slightly sassy retelling of the classic fairy tale was fun and sweet, in the style of a contemporary Disney animated film, right down... Expand

      This was my first time seeing a production at the Vortex. This slightly sassy retelling of the classic fairy tale was fun and sweet, in the style of a contemporary Disney animated film, right down to the music and hammy comedic characters. Making use of every inch of the tiny theater space, the show sometimes felt overwhelming when more than a dozen actors were on stage at once, and some of the acting and singing were weak, but I certainly had a smile on my face throughout the show. Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Brilliant"
      Review posted by: Celia Hughes from Austin, TX USA, Apr 16, 2010
      

      Bonnie Cullum has pulled off a masterpiece in a very small space. I loved every minute of this well crafted and costumed retelling of the Sleeping Beauty tale. There were several younger children... Expand

      Bonnie Cullum has pulled off a masterpiece in a very small space. I loved every minute of this well crafted and costumed retelling of the Sleeping Beauty tale. There were several younger children in the audience, and they seemed engaged and entranced by it all. Really. Don't miss it! Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "One of the best shows I've seen in Austin."
      Review posted by: Scotty from Austin, TX, Apr 15, 2010
      

      THIS SHOW IS PHENOMENAL. Simply an amazing spectacle of gorgeous costumes, dazzling lighting, marvelous music, talented cast, and a great overall message of 'finding the truth within' yourself. I... Expand

      THIS SHOW IS PHENOMENAL. Simply an amazing spectacle of gorgeous costumes, dazzling lighting, marvelous music, talented cast, and a great overall message of 'finding the truth within' yourself. I found myself really involved in the story--So much that my hands were sweating during the more intense scenes! The play has a lighthearted humor that was unexpected, yet still has the necessary weight to pull you into the lives of the characters (many many characters, yet still well developed!) I am actually considering seeing it again--something I don't normally do! Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "absolutely magnificent"
      Review posted by: Jarred from Austin, TX, Apr 07, 2010
      

      this is the best musical/play i have seen in a long while and contrary to the posted review, my daughter (8) was not at all scared, on the contrary, she is still in awe about the castle and the... Expand

      this is the best musical/play i have seen in a long while and contrary to the posted review, my daughter (8) was not at all scared, on the contrary, she is still in awe about the castle and the fairies Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "'Tis a beauty!"
      Review posted by: D Kinne from Austin, TX USA, Apr 07, 2010
      

      It's gorgeous, through and through. Gorgeous music and book, gorgeous performances, gorgeous costumes and set. I've been an avid theater lover for more than 50 years, and this counts as one of... Expand

      It's gorgeous, through and through. Gorgeous music and book, gorgeous performances, gorgeous costumes and set. I've been an avid theater lover for more than 50 years, and this counts as one of the most memorable shows I've seen anywhere. During most of the show the small stage is filled with enchanting characters, all doing interesting things at the same time. A rich visual feast, with a darker story line than most adults remember, it's both scary and funny by measure. I can easily see Sleeping Beauty (or We Know What Briar Rose Did the Last 100 Summers) being successfully scaled up for a bigger venue, possibly even a major production in New York or London. I'm telling my friends, if you only get out for one live play this season (perish the thought!), make it this one. It's not to be missed. Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "Enchanted by Sleeping Beauty: The Musical"
      Review posted by: Pammyla Brooks from Austin, Texas, Apr 05, 2010
      

      The ever-popular fairy tale is wakened back to life in Vortex's original new musical which is so aesthetically beautiful it is a delight to behold. From the minute you walk into the theater, you will... Expand

      The ever-popular fairy tale is wakened back to life in Vortex's original new musical which is so aesthetically beautiful it is a delight to behold. From the minute you walk into the theater, you will be enchanted by the fairies who interact with the audience in the front row, and the magical laser lights dancing around the darkened theater. The set is impressive is size and function, and I loved the "living" vines that trap all the princes that were unable to make it into the castle. The costumes, makeup, and hair arrangements are all exquisite and beautiful. The theater itself has been recently improved as all the seating is now on one side, making it easier for the cast to play to the entire audience, compared with its historical setup. Unlike other Vortex shows, this play has no nudity and so is appropriate for children. The best part is the non-traditional, yet strong and happy ending. Well done Bonnie Cullum and Content Love Knowles! I predict it will be a hit and will go far. Collapse

    • Event Name: Sleeping Beauty
      "It's a Beauty!"
      Review posted by: Steven Fearing from Austin, TX, Apr 05, 2010
      

      Bonnie Cullum’s adaptation is clever and contemporary; it well-staged with over 30 characters fluidly moving in all directions. Many mytho-psychological layers and “gifts” are given for classic... Expand

      Bonnie Cullum’s adaptation is clever and contemporary; it well-staged with over 30 characters fluidly moving in all directions. Many mytho-psychological layers and “gifts” are given for classic sleeping beauty devotees. How to make the kingdom safe? Perseverance, courage, intuition, and empathy might help and a reclamation of spinning! Content Love Knowles' music is fittingly melodic and endearing. Costumes are visually intriguing. I loved Jennifer Coy’s comedic narration as the Fool. The Fae girls were sublime, especially Suzanne Balling as Ixlamere. Julia Lorenz as Princess Briar Rose claims her power and right to self-determine despite happy-ever-after chaos. Jonathan Itchon (Prince Dave) is vocally smooth. Andy Agne and Alejandro Rodriguez fantastically play multiple characters. Bottom line: a delightful fantasy at the Vortex; a party (and musical dance theatre) that is better because the faery’s are there! Join Vortex’s Faery Masque Ball on May 1. Collapse

• Media
  Reviews

  • Media Reviews

    There are currently no media reviews for this event.